Converse for exercise: Are classic sneakers good for workouts?

When you think of Converse, a classic rubber-soled sneaker originally designed for basketball in the 1910s. Also known as Chuck Taylors, it’s a staple in casual fashion—but not always the right pick for serious exercise. Millions of people lace up their Converse for the gym, runs, or even HIIT sessions because they’re cheap, simple, and look good. But here’s the truth: Converse for exercise can be a bad idea if you’re pushing your body hard. These shoes lack the cushioning, arch support, and shock absorption modern athletic footwear provides. They’re flat, stiff, and don’t move with your foot. That’s fine for walking to the store. Not fine for jumping, sprinting, or lifting heavy weights.

Think about your foot strike, how your foot hits the ground during movement. Runners who land on their heels need cushioning to absorb impact. People who do box jumps or burpees need a stable base to prevent ankle rolls. Converse doesn’t deliver any of that. Studies on athletic footwear show that flat-soled shoes like Converse increase stress on the knees, shins, and plantar fascia—especially during repetitive motion. Even gym workouts, structured physical training using equipment or bodyweight like squats or deadlifts benefit from a slightly raised heel and firm midsole. Converse gives you neither. You might get away with light bodyweight circuits or yoga, but if you’re lifting over 70% of your max or running more than a mile, you’re asking for trouble.

So what’s the fix? You don’t need the most expensive shoe on the market. You need the right tool for the job. For lifting, go for a flat, stable sole like a Nike Metcon or Reebok Nano. For running, pick a shoe with proper cushioning and arch support—something that matches your foot type. And if you love the look of Converse? Wear them after your workout. The athletic footwear, shoes designed specifically for physical activity and performance you wear while training matters more than you think. Your joints, tendons, and long-term mobility depend on it.

Below, you’ll find real-world insights from people who’ve tried working out in Converse—and what happened when they switched. We cover what sports they worked out in, how their bodies reacted, and what shoes actually delivered better results. No fluff. Just facts from people who’ve been there.